The end? Lakers reportedly will allow Bronny James only to play G League home games

Bronny James, fresh from his G League debut will be a part-time player focusing on home games as he splits time between the NBA and G League.


The end? Lakers reportedly will allow Bronny James only to play G League home games

Bronny James

Over the weekend, Bronny James, the son of LeBron James, made his G League debut with the South Bay Lakers. However, according to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst and Dave McMenamin, Bronny will only play in home games for the G League club going forward.

As revealed by the ESPN hosts on The Hoop Collective Podcast, this plan will allow Bronny James to shuttle between the Los Angeles Lakers and the South Bay Lakers. Lakers head coach JJ Redick had previously stated that he would split time between the two teams after their first road trip.

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So far, the eldest son of LeBron James has yet to show capable play on the court. He will require G League games to develop his skills. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst gave clarity on the matter.

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I’m gonna apply the brakes on my ‘everything’s fine on the Bronny front’ with this thing that’s now happening. Which is that from my understanding, he’s only gonna play in the South Bay Lakers’ home games.

Brian Windhorst via The Hoop Collective Podcast

James’ G League debut was not as impressive, with six points, three rebounds, four assists, and two steals. It led Hall of Fame coach, George Karl to blast a user on X that had high great expectations for him. Soon, McMenamin added what’s expected of the Lakers plan for Bronny.

So on the record, the Lakers have not said that, you know, this notion that he definitively will be prioritizing Laker road games over wherever the South Bay Lakers are playing. We have to say that.

Dave McMenamin via The Hoop Collective Podcast

South Bay’s next game is on Friday at Santa Cruz, but James will likely return for Sunday’s home game against the Stockton Kings. This part-time arrangement will allow James to gain experience and develop his skills while also maintaining his connection to the Lakers organization.

Bronny James earns teammate’s praise after G League debut

Bronny James’ G League debut did not exactly go as planned as he struggled offensively. Nevertheless, some fans remain optimistic as he showed promising signs. His teammate, Quincy Olivari, at the end of the game, praised James’ court vision and chemistry.

That’s one of my guys… he was actually one of the first people I met when I got out here, we used to shoot together after practice and workout together… Bronny is an amazing kid and I just love being around him… He’s always looking to make the right play and you can’t ever be mad at a kid trying to make the right play.

Quincy Olivari said in a presser

Olivari also appreciated his unselfish approach and ability to thrive in transition. The two have developed a strong chemistry through offseason workouts and training camp. As Bronny navigates the challenges of professional basketball, he’ll definitely face intense scrutiny due to his famous lineage. Only his performances can silence the critics.